In a tightly contested Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium on May 2, 2025, Manchester City secured a narrow 1-0 victory over an in-form Wolverhampton Wanderers, thanks to a first-half strike from Kevin De Bruyne. The result bolstered City’s hopes of securing Champions League qualification, while Wolves’ remarkable six-game winning streak came to an end despite a spirited performance.
The game began with both sides showcasing their attacking intent, but it was City who struck first in the 35th minute. A swift move saw Rúben Dias win a tackle in midfield, allowing İlkay Gündoğan to drive forward and find Jérémy Doku on the flank. Doku, despite a slight stumble, managed to cut the ball back to De Bruyne, who calmly slotted a right-footed shot past Wolves’ goalkeeper José Sá from 12 yards. The goal, De Bruyne’s seventh of the season, was a poignant moment in what was his penultimate match at the Etihad before his expected departure from the club.
Wolves, under the guidance of manager Vitor Pereira, refused to crumble. The visitors, buoyed by their recent run of form, pressed for an equalizer, with Matheus Cunha coming closest when his powerful shot rattled the post in the second half. Despite their efforts, City’s defense, marshaled by Josko Gvardiol and Manuel Akanji, held firm. Pep Guardiola’s side maintained control, with 66.1% possession and nine shot attempts, though only two were on target.
Guardiola, who drew inspiration from veteran manager Neil Warnock in preparing his team, made tactical adjustments to counter Wolves’ threat. Substitutions, including Akanji for Nico O’Reilly in the 58th minute, helped City see out the game, while Wolves’ changes, such as Pablo Sarabia and Gonçalo Guedes, failed to produce a breakthrough. The match remained cagey until the final whistle, with Wolves’ late corner cleared decisively by City’s backline.
The victory moved Manchester City to third in the Premier League standings, closing the gap to second-placed Arsenal to three points, though the Gunners have a game in hand. For Wolves, the defeat was a setback but did little to diminish their impressive resurgence under Pereira, with the team sitting comfortably in 13th place. City now turn their attention to a favorable fixture against bottom-placed Southampton, while Wolves aim to regroup for their next challenge.